We hear stories all the time of top producers who are achieving success in network marketing. Yet at the same time we hear statistics that tell us that approximately 97% of the people involved in network marketing make less than $100 per month. Even more staggering is the finding that the average person remains actively involved in their network marketing business for less than 90 days. So what is the difference between the two? Why do some fly high and others come crashing down with a great big thud?

The answer to that question is commitment. When you boil it down to its core, the primary difference is the commitment that is displayed by one group when compared to the other. Sadly, many people enter the world of MLM with a "weekend hobby" mindset. They are hoping that by devoting a few hours and talking to a few friends is going to make them an instant multi-millionaire. Nothing could be further removed from the truth. Network marketing is a business, and it needs to be treated accordingly. Many people enter the world of network marketing, because a friend is excited about an opportunity and the thought of starting a business for very little money sounds appealing. The low initial monetary investment can unfortuntely bring about a shallow emotional commitment as well.

There are some critical commitments that a network marketer should make if they are to enjoy any measure of long term success. The first commitment is a commitment to not quit under any circumstance until their goals are reached. This means that the individual must make a conscious decision to press on even when people say no. They must press on even when sales are slow. They must push forward even when people greet them with negativity. This commitment must not be influenced by the clock or calendar. The commitment is only influenced by the realization of the dream. The fuel for commitment is inspiration. It is imperative that the individual have a vision that is large enough to keep them pressing forward under any circumstance. If you are able to give up your dream, then it simply is not big enough to motivate you to success.

The next commitment that needs to be made is to business building actions and activities. A network marketer should have measurable, obtainable activity goals for each and every day. These should ultimately contribute to product sales and business building. For example your business building efforts may include a commitment to write one new blog entry each day. That commitment needs to become non-negotiable, and there should even be time blocked off on the calendar just for this activity. By making a commitment to these business building activities, they become a priority for the network marketer's business and are less likely to be neglected. A business owner realizes that making a commitment to these measurable activities brings them that much closer to their final goals.

The final commitment is a commitment to personal development. A network marketing team will rarely go beyond the level of their leader. The way to improve the overall productivity of your team is to increase your own capabilities. This could include such things as a commitment to attend a monthly seminar or webinar. It might also include reading at least one related book per month on business, success or leadership. These commitments will not only grow you as a person, but they will make you more valuable to your team members as well.

If you are serious about achieving success in network marketing, start by making these key commitments today.